People with aging parents may find it difficult to have a discussion about the prospect of transitioning them into a senior residence, particularly an assisted living community. Many adult children should expect to face some resistance from their parents who may feel they are not ready to give up their independence and/or move from their home. However, there are potential warning signs that one should consider while evaluating the particular circumstances. The following are some examples when having a discussion on the topic might be necessary: The refrigerator is empty or filled with spoiled food, which may be a sign…
Some mistakenly dismiss elder law as something with which they need not concern themselves until they personally need help getting by each day. However, at the Elder Law office we work with many local residents on these issues decades before they need care themselves. That is because many adult children are forced to deal with these concerns on behalf of their parents–many of whom have serious health concerns that arise quite quickly. With demographic changes leading to a boom in the elderly population, the need to care for aging parents is catching more and more adult children by surprise. According…
The program, "Family Matters," focuses on financial planning for multigenerational households. At the Elder Law Office we work with many local families in this situation, often with aging parents who move in with adult children when their health deteriorates. One of the first episodes of the program delves directly into elder law issues. The program shares the story of a family that was forced to make many adjustments when a woman's 84-year old father needed a caretaker. The woman explained that the adjustment was not easy. Not only did the job of caretaker not come naturally, but figuring out how…
Taking care of your aging parent can be difficult, even if you live right down the road. But when you live out of state, those difficulties can grow exponentially. How can you make sure their needs are met? Preparation. Visit with a Purpose. If you can, take an extended trip so you have ample time to assess how your parents are coping. Particularly review: Hygiene Eating habit How they’re getting around Their social interaction Are they taking care of their business (bills, medications, etc.)? Make Arrangements. If you notice your parent having difficulties, consider getting them a home health aide….
According to MetLife's National Health and Retirement Study, the percentage of adult children spending time and money on their parent's care has tripled in the last decade and a half. This comes as no surprise to me, as I see the rising long-term care costs, the economic downturn, and failure to plan ahead for senior care places. Therefore, many families are in tough situations when a loved one ages and needs extra day-to-day care. The MetLife data found that roughly a quarter of all adults are currently providing at least some financial assistance to their parents. A similar survey from…
The common symptoms of mild stage Alzheimer’s disease are: Having trouble following multi-step processes i.e. cooking recipe. Getting lost, even in places where they are familiar. Having trouble performing household chores i.e. cleaning, laundry, etc. Avoiding social situations or having trouble remembering names, appointments or recent events. You can help your aging parents and/or loved one by taking the following steps: manage your loved one’s money to remove the stress and anxiety of bill paying etc. write reminders to your loved one in the same place i.e. calendar or notepad keep a list, near the telephone, of the names and…
Ride along: Take a rides with your parents and observe their physical ability in controlling the vehicle, staying within the lane, how turns are handled, the driving speed, ability to scan from left to right, any visual susceptibility to glare, and for any possible confusion in traffic. Check the vehicle: Periodically and without fanfare, check the outside of the car for any possible dents or scrapes. Accompany your parent at least once to every medical specialist and service or treatment center and, and have him or her sign a release of confidentiality (HIPPA) form. This will ensure that you are…
However, a person's age is not a justification for removing there keys. Seniors in their 80s and 90s can drive safely, while others in their 50s and 60s are dangers to themselves and others. However, seniors get the blame for bad driving. The most driving-accident-prone age group is 15 through 19. Your parents losing their independence, by removing the car, can be devastating to them. However, if physical and mental condition impare their ability to drive, you have to act for their and others safety. Here are some indicators: Vision: Your parent's optometrist or ophthalmologist can identify vision problems, limitations, concerns…
Your aging parents live in a different city or state, who will be your eyes and ears? Who will educate you and them about the elder care maze of Medicaid, Medicare, Long Term Care Insurance, Home Care v. Assisted Living v. Nursing Home, etc? You may talk to health care professionals, doctors, social workers, and friends. However, everyone seems to have a differing view about what is best for your aging parents; maybe these opinions conflict or have a different agenda. The physician desires to see your parents at home. Consequently, he does not lose a patient and revenue. An…
Do you have the time, inclination, or the ability to manage the affairs of your aging parents? Are the issues that your aging parents are facing becoming bigger and more complicated than you can comfortably manage? Are the other demands and responsibilities of family, work and day to day life, so abundant that you are not able to provide the desired level of control, supervision, and attention to your aging parent’s issues and crises? If you are not sure, please call our office for a consultation, or visit our website, so we can help you decide if our office may…
Frederick, MD 
301-663-9230
